In just one more of the many ways IKEA Grand Prairie plans to solidify its eco-friendly presence in the area, the company recently announced it will install three Blink® electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at the future store.

Joseph Roth, IKEA U.S. Expansion/Property Public Affairs said the company’s commitment to suitability is not just about IKEA being sustainable, but also about helping its customers or members of the public be sustainable.

“One of the biggest hurdles for electric vehicles is consumers’ range anxiety,” Roth explained. By having more frequent charging stations available to the public, perhaps it will encourage folks to use electric vehicles.”

This EV initiative also reflects the continued partnership between IKEA and Car Charging Group, Inc., the owner of the Blink Network and Blink EV charging stations.

“As a retailer, IKEA realizes that a focus on the sustainable transport of people can help empower customers to live sustainably,” said said Lars Petersson, IKEA U.S. president. “Meeting the needs of EV drivers in North Texas helps achieve both goals.”

To charge an EV at the future IKEA Grand Prairie, drivers can tap their Blink InCard (RFID card) to the reader below the screen, initiate the session directly from the Blink Mobile application, or use a guest code provided via the Blink Mobile app, or Blink Customer Support (888-998-2546). Once the session is initiated, drivers can plug the charger into the EV, and then shop and eat at their leisure in the IKEA store while the vehicle is charging.

Even better, EV drivers can become a Blink member for free and typically receive discounted charging fees at thousands of Blink units.

Currently there are EV charging units at 29 U.S. IKEA stores. There are three units located at the Frisco IKEA and three units at the Houston store as well.

The probability is also high that the future Fort Worth IKEA will feature the charging stations. Roth said the company is hoping to begin construction on the proposed IKEA Fort Worth next summer, 2018.

“Right now, our focus is on security governmental approvals from the city and state,” Roth added. “After the new year, we will begin evaluating potential sustainability options.”

One of the main ideas behind IKEA and its Swedish heritage is respect of nature. With that in mind the company believes it can do good business while minimizing impacts on the environment.

Other specific U.S. sustainable efforts the company employs include recycling waste material, incorporating environmental measures into buildings with energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water-conserving restrooms. Operationally, eliminating plastic bags from the check-out process, and selling only LED bulbs is also an IKEA standard. Consistent with its goal to be energy independent by 2020, IKEA has installed more than 700,000 solar panels on buildings worldwide and owns nearly 350 wind turbines, including 104 in the U.S.